Jeff Bobo

ROGERSVILLE - A tail light violation late Friday night prompted a traffic stop which allegedly led Hawkins County deputies to marijuana, cash, and two teens who are now charged with drug trafficking.

Late Friday night HCSO Deputy Gary Lawson reportedly observed a Silver Chrysler sedan with a tail light out traveling west on Highway 11-W near the intersection of Far Side Drive just west of Rogersville.

Upon conducting a traffic stop Lawson identified the driver as James Ray Tessier, 18, 827 Tuggle Hill Road, Rogersville, who allegedly appeared to be under the influence.

Tessier was reportedly unable to provide a valid registration for the vehicle a bottle of liquor was found lying in the back seat of the vehicle.

According to a report filed by Sheriff Ronnie Lawson, Deputy Gary Lawson asked Tessier if there was any illegal controlled substances in the vehicle, at which time Tessier allegedly admitted there was some marijuana in the center console.

"Mr. Tessier then voluntarily produced several clear baggies from the center console, which contained marijuana," Sheriff Lawson said. "Mr. Tessier was also found to be in possession of $40 cash, which he later stated was proceeds from illegal drug sales."

Tessier's passenger was identified as Patrick Blake Ryan, 18, 1755 Rt. 66-S, Rogersville, who allegedly admitted there was marijuana under his seat.

"Deputy Lawson then retrieved a larger baggie of marijuana, as well as digital scales, rolling papers, and two packs of cigars from under the seat," Sheriff Lawson said. "Mr. Tessier and Mr. Ryan were placed in custody, at which time Mr. Ryan was found to be in possession of over $700 cash. During further investigation, it was determined that a portion of this cash was proceeds from illegal drug sales."

Lawson said the total weight of the confiscated marijuana is just short of two ounces. The drugs, cash, and Tessier's vehicle were seized by the HCSO.

Tessier was charged with possession of marijuana for resale, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI, registration violation, and underage possession of alcohol. As oof Sunday he remained held in the Hawkins County Jail on $7,500 bond with arraignment set for Jan. 6.

Ryan was charged with possession of marijuana for resale, possession of drug paraphernalia, and underage possession of alcohol. Ryan was released on $2,500 bond and will be arraigned Jan. 6.